Menorah Lighting Dec. 20
By Susan Manning
Staff writer
Kicking off Hanukkah this year will be similar to the past few: a menorah lighting in Montenegro Square.
According to Sha’arei Shalom President Kate Fialky, this has become an annual event.
The synagogue purchased a menorah several years ago and have been hosting this community menorah lighting every year in Montenegro Square in Downtown Ashland.
“We typically hold it during the first few days of Hanukkah,” she said.
Helping plan the event is the board of the synagogue, the committees and its rabbi, Eric Gurvis.
“The board arranges to set up the menorah, our Hebrew School teachers practice the songs leading up to the holiday, and the rabbi plans the song list,” said Fialky.
The honor of lighting the menorah, said the president, goes to a member of the synagogue typically.
“We often will give the honor of lighting the menorah to a member. A few years ago, one of our founders, Martin Shapiro, lit the menorah— it was a very special moment for us and for him!” she said.
The menorah lighting is open to anyone who wants to attend.
“This is a community event. We love to see new and familiar faces glowing in the light of the menorah while tucked into cozy hats and warm coats! Town Manager, Michael Herbert as well as members of Ashland’s police and fire departments also join in. Whether you belong to another synagogue or are just curious to see what a menorah lighting is all about, we are happy to welcome anyone that wants to join us,” said Fialky.
The menorah lighting will be held on Friday, Dec. 20, from 6:15 to 7 PM, in Montenegro Square, 100-196 Main St.
Sha’arei Shalom is a small, member-driven community synagogue based in Ashland. Services are held twice a month throughout the year. More information can be found online at
